ES 1
Premises Connection Requirements
July 2013SCOPE
This publication provides general information to assist with connection to Ausgrid’s network. WARNING
It is the responsibility of the user of this document to ensure that only the current version is being used.
Ausgrid may amend this document at any time.
DOCUMENT AND AMENDMENT HISTORY Issue
No.
Date Approved by Summary of Changes
1 1 July 2013 EM-S&MS
(acting)
Complete revision to align with NECF requirements. New title.
2 12 June 2014 M – Connection
Policy
Various amendments as per CIA1384
3 4 September 2014 M – Connection
Policy
Correction to clause 2.8 Electrical Safety Inspections, to reflect that this work is carried out by the customer’s electrical contractor
4 21 January 2015 M – Installation
Inspections
Changes to installation inspection office hours and locations, Sydney South and East
ISSN 1032-7215
Published and printed by Ausgrid. Copyright , Ausgrid.
This publication may only be reproduced with the permission of Ausgrid.
All correspondence should be directed to: General Manager – Network Operations Ausgrid
GPO Box 4009 SYDNEY NSW 2001
The Ausgrid network area covers the following localities:
Ashfield Gosford Lane Cove North Sydney South Sydney
Auburn Hornsby Leichhardt Pittwater Strathfield
Bankstown Hunters Hill Maitland Port Stephens Sutherland
Botany Hurstville Manly Randwick Sydney
Burwood Kogarah Marrickville Rockdale Warringah
Canada Bay Ku-ring-gai Merriwa Ryde Waverley
Canterbury Lake Macquarie Mosman Scone Willoughby
Cessnock Muswellbrook Singleton Woollahra
Contents
1 INTRODUCTION ... 3
2 PREMISES CONNECTIONS – GENERAL INFORMATION... 4
2.1 Premises connection inquiries ... 4
2.2 Determining the Point of Common Coupling ... 6
2.3 Establishing a Retail Contract ... 7
2.4 Site Establishment Fee (SEF) ... 7
2.5 Underground or Overhead Connections? ... 7
2.6 Underground Cable Locations ... 8
2.7 Safety near Overhead Powerlines ... 9
2.8 Electrical Safety Inspections ... 9
2.9 Maintenance of Existing Installations ... 10
2.10 Inspection and Maintenance of all Private Aerial Mains ... 10
2.11 Electricity Metering Locking System ... 11
3 CONNECTIONS AT LOW VOLTAGE ... 12
3.1 Requirements for Subdivided Land ... 12
3.1.1 Torrens Title Properties ... 12
3.1.2 Strata Title Properties ... 12
3.1.3 Community Title Properties ... 12
3.2 Connections Crossing an Adjoining Property ... 12
3.3 Shared Road Crossing Service Lines ... 12
3.4 Separation of Supply ... 13
3.5 Connections to Pole Mounted Substations ... 13
3.6 ‘Tap-off’ Consumer’s Mains Connections ... 13
3.7 Service Connections to Paper Lead Distribution Cables ... 14
3.8 Bare Aerial Consumers Mains ... 15
3.9 Connections at Kiosk and Chamber Substations ... 15
3.9.1 New Connections ... 15
3.9.2 Alterations and Additions ... 15
3.10 Out of Area Connections ... 16
3.11 Small Scale Grid Connected Generation Systems ... 16
3.11.1 Net Metered Grid Connected Generation Systems ... 17
3.11.2 Gross metered grid connected generation systems ... 17
3.11.3 Adding additional buy back metering to existing embedded generation sites ... 17
3.11.4 NSW Solar Bonus Scheme ... 17
3.12 Request for Current Transformer (CT) metering ... 17
3.13 Permanent Unmetered Supplies ... 18
3.13.1 Alterations and Additions of PUMS Installations ... 18
3.13.2 Management of PUMS Installations ... 18
3.13.3 PUMS Lighting ... 19
3.14 Power quality assessment requirements ... 19
4 CONNECTIONS AT HIGH VOLTAGE ... 20
4.1 Installation Safety Management Plan ... 20
4.2 Operating protocol ... 21
4.3 Fault levels within a High Voltage Installation ... 21
4.4 Cables that enter Ausgrid substations ... 21
5 NOTIFYING AUSGRID ... 22
5.1 Electrical Installation Work (CCEW) ... 22
5.2 Service Work (NOSW) ... 23
5.3 Lodging notification forms ... 23
6 INSPECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS ... 24
6.1 Inspection of Electrical Installation Work ... 24
6.2 Work Requiring an Inspection Prior to Energising ... 24
6.3 Inspections Outside Normal Business Hours ... 25
6.4 Appointments ... 25
6.5 Identification ... 25
7 DEFECTS ... 26
7.1 Defects in Existing Installations ... 26
7.2 Defect Categories ... 26
7.3 Reporting and Follow up ... 28
7.4 Breach of Law ... 28
8.1 Reasons Disconnection or Refusal to Connect ... 29
8.2 Disconnection for Safety ... 29
8.3 Disconnection and Removal of Unused Mains and Metering ... 29
8.4 Permanent Disconnection of Supply ... 29
9 DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCEDURES ... 31
9.1 Initial Consultation ... 31
9.2 Internal Review ... 31
9.3 Alternative Dispute Resolution - Mediation ... 31
9.4 Arbitration ... 31
APPENDIX A – CT METERING FORM ... 33
1 Introduction
This publication must be read in conjunction with the current edition of the Service and Installation Rules of NSW. The Premises Connection Requirements set out in this publication are intended to be consistent with the Service and Installation Rules and provide further clarification where those Rules refer to decisions to be made by the Network Operator (the ‘local distributor’).
Ausgrid’s Premises Connection Requirements apply to the connection or upgrading the connection of private electrical installations in Ausgrid’s distribution network area. The requirements are relevant to Ausgrid’s existing and new network customers, their electrical consultants, electrical contractors and Accredited Service Providers.
“Premises Connections” referred to in this publication are the connection of a customer’s electrical installation to Ausgrid’s network via “premises connection assets” such as low voltage overhead service lines, low voltage underground service mains, high voltage mains to customers taking supply at high voltage and the installation of tariff metering equipment. Premises connection assets are necessary for the connection of the electrical installation to the network and dedicated for that connection. New or altered premises connection assets are funded by the customer, installed by appropriately accredited service providers and become assets that Ausgrid will take ownership of and maintain.
This publication should be read in conjunction with the following relevant Ausgrid publications:
NS238 Supply Quality (Replacing ENOS)
Electricity Supply Standards (ES Series)
ES 3 Part A – Metering Installations
ES 3 Part B – Technical Specifications for Metering Installations
ES 4 – Service Provider Authorisation
Ausgrid Connection Policy – Connection Charges
Policy for ASP/1 Premises Connections (Formerly ES10)
ES 7 – Application of Network Use of System Charges
Network Standards (NS series)
Customer Installation Advice (CIA)
Network Standard Advice (NSA)
Network Management Plan (incorporating chapter 2 - Customer Installation Safety Plan). Copies of all Ausgrid publications in this list can be downloaded in PDF Acrobat Reader format from Ausgrid’s website www.ausgrid.com.au.
2
Premises Connections – General Information
2.1
Premises connection inquiries
Information for customers wishing to connect or upgrade their current connection to the network system can be found on Ausgrid’s website: www.ausgrid.com.au/connectingtothenetwork
Technical inquiries concerning premises connections at a particular site can be made at an Ausgrid Network Operations office serving the following localities:
UPPER HUNTER AREA Muswellbrook office
Connections in the Muswellbrook, Scone, Merriwa, Singleton and Branxton areas. Local Government Areas (LGA) Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Singleton
Office Location: 41 Thomas Mitchell Drive,
MUSWELLBROOK.
Postal Address: PO Box 196 Muswellbrook 2333
Office Hours 7.00 am to 3.30 pm (Monday to Friday)
Contact Details
Customer connection inquiries: (02) 6542 9017
General Facsimile (connection applications, CCEW’s and NOSW's forms)
(02) 6542 9037
Technical Enquiries: [email protected]
Facsimile for connection applications, CCEWs and NOSWs
(02) 4399 8007 or 1300 662 089 (local calls)
Email (electronic or scanned forms) [email protected]
LOWER HUNTER AND CENTRAL COAST AREA Tuggerah Office
Connections in the NSW Central Coast area.
Office Location: 14 Pioneer Ave Tuggerah
Postal Address: PO Box 3744 Tuggerah NSW 2259
Office Hours 7.30 am to 4 pm (Monday to Friday).
Contact Details
Customer connection inquiries (02) 4399 8000
General Facsimile (not forms) (02) 4399 8001
Technical Enquiries [email protected]
Facsimile for all connection applications, CCEW’s and NOSW’s
(02) 4399 8007 or 1300 662 089 (local calls)
Wallsend Office
Connections in the Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Maitland and Port Stephens areas.
Office Location: Building 5, 78 Abbott St Wallsend
Postal Address: PO Box 487 Newcastle NSW 2300
Office Hours 7:30 am to 4pm (Monday to Friday).
Contact Details
Customer connection inquiries (02) 40356000
Email (Technical Enquiries) [email protected]
General Facsimile (not forms) (02) 49519934
Facsimile for all connection applications CCEWs and NOSWs
(02) 4399 8007 or 1300 662 089 (local calls)
Email (electronic or scanned forms) [email protected]
SYDNEY NORTH AREA Hornsby Office
Connections between the southern side of the Hawkesbury River to the northern side of Sydney Harbour and the Parramatta River.
Office Location: Building 2, 51-59 Bridge Rd near
Sherbrook Rd, Hornsby
Postal Address: GPO Box 4009 Sydney NSW 2001
Office Hours 7.30 am to 4.00 pm (Monday to
Friday). Contact Details
Customer inquiries (02) 9477 8201
General Facsimile (not forms) (02) 9477 8207
Technical Enquiries (email) or [email protected]
Technical Enquiries (phone) (02) 94778205
Clerical Enquiries (email) or [email protected]
Clerical Enquiries (phone) (02) 94778201
Main Switchboard Drawings [email protected]
Facsimile for all connection applications, CCEWs and NOSWs
(02) 4399 8007 or 1300 662 089 (local calls)
Local Call 1300 662 089
SYDNEY SOUTH AND EAST AREA
Generic Contact Details for South and East
Office Hours 7:30 am to 4pm (Monday to Friday).
All Phone Enquiries 8:00am – 3:00pm (Monday to Friday)
(02) 9585 5996
Postal Address GPO Box 4009 Sydney NSW 2001
Facsimile for all connection applications, CCEWs and NOSWs
02) 8001 3440 or 1300 662 089 (local calls)
Oatley Office (South Area)
Connections south of Parramatta River, western suburbs, and those not in the East area
Office Location: 33-45 Judd Street Oatley. (Building
No.1)
South western corner of the ground floor of the Administration Building.
Email [email protected]
General Facsimile (not forms) (02) 9585 5776
Email (electronic or scanned forms) [email protected]
Zetland Office (East Area)
Connections in the Sydney CBD, Inner West and Eastern Suburbs
Office Location: 130 Joynton St Zetland NSW 2017
Level 1, Building 4
Email [email protected]
General Facsimile (not forms) (02) 9663 9321
GENERAL
Alternatively telephone inquiries may also be made to these offices through Ausgrid’s Customer Contact Centre on:
Account inquires Connection of supply
Disconnection of supply
}
13 13 65Calls to this number can be made for the cost of a local call in NSW.
2.2
Determining the Point of Common Coupling
When new or altered connection arrangements are proposed, it will be necessary to determine in advance the most effective way to connect the service and metering equipment so that it complies with the relevant documentation set out in the Service and Installation Rules of NSW. This may be carried out by a suitably authorised level 2 Accredited Service Provider (ASP 2).
Alternatively a Preliminary Enquiry form can be submitted to Ausgrid seeking clarification of the service connection arrangements. Details of the Preliminary Enquiry form can be found on the Ausgrid website. There may also be charges for this service.
2.3
Establishing a Retail Contract
All new connections to Ausgrid’s network must have a Retail contract established prior to energisation. On receipt of a completed Connection Application, Ausgrid will return the National Metering Identifier (NMI) to the applicant. It is the responsibility of the applicant and customer to establish a Retail contract with a Retailer of their choice. Once this is completed the new Retailer will notify Ausgrid. Ausgrid will only then issue a Job Number. This job Number can then be used by the applicants Accredited Service Provider (ASP) to collect appropriate metering to establish the connection.
2.4
Site Establishment Fee (SEF)
As detailed in Ausgrid’s document Connection Policy – Connection Charges, the Site Establishment Fee (SEF) will be charged where a customer’s installation requires the creation of a new National Metering Identifier (NMI). The fee covers the issue of a meter by Ausgrid and its coordination with AEMO (Australian Energy Market Operator) for the purpose of establishing the NMI (in MSATS (Market Settlement and Transfer System) and for checking and updating network standing data. It will apply to new premises or to any existing premises for which AEMO requires a new NMI. This
includes a new account at a new premise or an additional account at an existing premise. A new NMI will be allocated to all new installations which include:
temporary builder’s supplies
permanent unmetered supplies
single domestic residence
single customer commercial sites
multi-customer commercial and domestic sites (a new NMI will be allocated for House Lights, essential services etc and for each separately metered account customer or separately metered living unit, shop, factory or business)
duplex residences (new NMI for each separately metered living unit)
separation of supply (new NMI for the new separately metered portion only)
change in the type of network connection. (For example, where an overhead service line is replaced by an underground cable direct from a substation. In this case, a new NMI is created and the old NMI is made extinct.)
The Site Establishment Fee does not apply in the following circumstances involving Temporary Builder’s Services (TBS), where an existing service line is ‘relocated’ on the same site and no new NMI is created:
a new TBS, where an existing single domestic residence is being demolished and the site redeveloped for a new single domestic residence only. The associated NOSWs for the recovered and the new metering/service lines must be submitted to Ausgrid at the same time. The NOSW for the new metering/TBS should be marked ‘Service Line Relocation’.
For a new single domestic residence, where the TBS used for its construction is being removed. The associated NOSWs for the recovered and the new metering/service lines must be submitted to Ausgrid at the same time.
Note: The Site Establishment Fee will be charged (and a new NMI created) for the initial
‘greenfield’ TBS. The NOSW for the new metering/service line should be marked ‘Service Line Relocation’.
The Site Establishment Fee will usually be charged to the ASP responsible for installing the metering for the installation. It will be charged when the Notification of Service Work (NOSW) form is submitted detailing metering for the new installation or the transfer or separation of an existing installation for which a new NMI is to be created. If an ASP is not involved with the work, the Site Establishment fee will be charged to the installing electrical contractor upon submission or a Certificate of Compliance (CCEW).
2.5
Underground or Overhead Connections?
A network connection via underground service mains will apply to installations connected in areas reticulated by underground distribution mains. The standard connection in overhead mains reticulated areas is via an overhead service line however, an application may be considered for an underground to overhead (UGOH) connection under certain conditions as detailed in the Service and Installation
Rules. Additional conditions for future undergrounding, as highlighted in Ausgrid publication ES10, may also apply.
The premises listed below, which are in an urban overhead distribution mains area, must make provision for connection to future underground distribution mains:
commercial premises with a property frontage greater than 50 metres
multiple residential developments (eg home units or villa homes) not including duplexes. In such developments the customer must install:
an underground service line to a suitable existing street pole; or
sheathed underground consumers mains to a customer pole erected near the front property boundary (within 1 metre).
Note: Where neither of the above methods of supply is suitable contact the local Network Operations Office.
2.6
Underground Cable Locations
Ausgrid has a network of underground cables. These cables range from the normal house supply voltage for 240 volts to others up to 132,000 volts. Whether or not poles and overhead wires exist in the local area, it is quite possible that there are underground cables at your work site.
If you do any sort of excavation you should be aware that interfering with underground cables could result in danger to yourself and people nearby. Damage to cables can cause loss of supply to Ausgrid customers and can be costly to repair.
Before carrying out any earthworks or excavations it is important that you check the location of underground services, including electricity mains that may be in or near the area you are working.
Dial Before You Dig – Australia-wide Call 1100 – free call (except from mobiles)
Dial Before You Dig is an important community service that can help you avoid damaging one of Australia’s most precious and valuable assets – our underground cables and pipes.
A unique partnership has been formed between Australia’s major service providers in order to help protect our underground lifelines – including our communications, gas, water and electricity. This means that if you are planning any excavations you only need call one number for information on underground service plans for any location AUSTRALIA WIDE.
So please, protect your community’s lifelines. Dial 1100 before you dig. When do I need to call 1100?
When planning an excavation it is vital to make Dial Before You Dig part of the process. Call 1100 well in advance of any actual digging work as you may find that you need to make adjustments to your excavation plans in order to prevent cable or pipe damage.
Note: Where excavation works are to be carried out near cables in an area where property boundaries or aids to cable location are lost or unclear, the person responsible for the excavation work must engage cable locating services or surveyors when digging within close proximity to the cables. The location of the cables shall be marked and hand excavation used until the cables are located.
What do I need to know when dialing 1100?
When calling 1100 be ready to provide the operator with:
your name and address
name of company (if applicable)
contact telephone number
fax number for return information
contact name on site
site address and both nearest cross streets
start date of proposed work
type of work being carried out.
Within two days you will receive plans of relevant underground services.
If there is anything you are not sure of, please call the relevant utility direct before proceeding with any digging or excavating.
For further information on underground pipes and cables and their locations, simply dial 1100 or you can request plans from their website
www.dialbeforeyoudig.com.au
2.7
Safety near Overhead Powerlines
Before starting to plan any work on a building site it is important to identify and be aware of any potential electrical hazards that may impact on the work.
Overhead power lines can be present in several forms of construction having bare, covered, insulated or insulated and screened conductors. Electrical accidents can be caused by the unintended contact with power lines, for example accidental contact during the erection of scaffolding, guttering and building frames. They can also present a hazard to construction vehicles and plant operating at the construction site.
All overhead powerlines and cables must be treated as potentially dangerous electrical hazards during a building site risk assessment.
The WorkCover Authority of NSW document Work near Overhead Powerlines aims is to protect the health and safety of persons from the risks arising when they are working near overhead power lines and associated electrical apparatus. It provides practical advice on implementing the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001. If the construction is in our network area and the required clearances cannot be adhered to during construction you must contact Ausgrid for further advice.
Phone 13 13 65.
2.8
Electrical Safety Inspections
The Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act and Regulation requires owners or controllers of electrical installations, to maintain their electrical installation to ensure that:
the safe and satisfactory operation of the installation is not impaired by interference, damage, ageing or wear
the live parts remain properly insulated or protected against inadvertent contact with any person
the earthing system operates effectively
the installation is not used in a manner that exceeds the operating limits imposed by its design or installation
the installation does not become a significant potential cause of fire for the environment surrounding the installation.
Owners of installations in commercial premises are obligated under similar but more stringent requirements of the Work Health and Safety Act.
Ausgrid encourages customers to arrange regular safety checks of their electrical installation by a qualified person. Of particular concern is old wiring that has deteriorated and become unsafe. It is also advised that customers, purchasing existing premises, request an electrical safety check of the installation to ensure there is no faulty wiring due to deterioration or defective workmanship.
Where a safety check is requested by the owner, who is not the actual electricity customer, or by a prospective purchaser, the customer’s permission must be given for the safety check prior to it being carried out by an electrical contractor.
2.9
Maintenance of Existing Installations
(Particularly with old and deteriorated equipment)It is particularly important, where the installation is very old or deteriorated, resulting in for example high resistance connections, failed insulation or high risk of private aerial mains starting bush fires etc. that special attention be paid to the following aspects:
service neutral links and the customer’s active and neutral links
(overhead) point of attachment including exposed consumers mains that are often prone to ultraviolet degradation
structural integrity of private Pole A’s (and other private poles)
old hinged wooden switchboards
obsolete service fuses
old underground service termination boxes and old overhead mains connection boxes.
200-400 Amp Service Fuse cabinets. These cabinets are deemed obsolete and should be replaced at every opportunity.
private aerial mains, particularly bare mains in bush fire prone areas.
The customer must arrange to carry out any necessary repair work to rectify any safety hazards that could cause fires and electric shocks.
It is also recommended that periodic operational checks be carried out of Residual Current Devices (RCDs) (safety switches) and circuit breakers (where installed), in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and Australian Standards. As an approximate guide, circuit breakers should be checked every two years and RCDs every six months.
Note: Any identified potential safety hazards associated with Ausgrid’s service mains, including fittings such overhead line strain clamps, should be referred to Ausgrid to enable any necessary repairs to be carried out.
2.10
Inspection and Maintenance of all Private Aerial Mains
Customers will be given written notification of any installation defects Ausgrid becomes aware of during the conduct of its normal business operations or which may have been reported to Ausgrid. The electrical safety requirements for aerial wiring are contained in the Service and Installation Rules of NSW, AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules and the following Ausgrid publications:
NS 166 Line Inspection
ISSC Guideline for Managing Vegetation Near Power Lines. These Network Standards specify the following requirements:
An annual visual inspection must be carried out for installations in bush fire prone areas (as defined in Ausgrid’s Bush Fire Risk Management Plan) prior to the commencement of the bush fire danger season (as declared by the Rural Fire Service).
A complete line inspection must be performed every four years and a complete pole inspection is required two years after each complete line inspection. Any safety breaches must be attended to promptly.
The installation of approved spreaders on bare low voltage aerial mains (in bush fire prone areas), to minimise the risk of these mains starting a bush fire.
The maintenance of required vegetation safety clearances from private aerial mains. Private poles should be inspected by a qualified person to determine the residual strength of the structure, and re-inspected on their recommendation. Ausgrid’s Network Standards can also be used for guidance.
Ausgrid’s website lists service providers authorised to carry out tree trimming in the vicinity of aerial mains.
Only suitably qualified electrical contractors can carry out low voltage spreader installation. New, replacement and disused private aerial mains must not be connected or reconnected to the electricity supply unless they have been inspected and tested by an electrical contractor and proven to be safe and compliant with the current AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules.
Ausgrid recommends that customers arrange for the removal of permanently disused private aerial mains from their premises.
2.11
Electricity Metering Locking System
Ausgrid has a restricted Electricity Metering (EM) locking system for installations in its network area. The locking system replaces the NMB and Frost locking systems that were previously issued to customers who require locks on their meter boxes and enclosures. These locks permit access by the customer and authorised Ausgrid staff.
Existing NMB and Frost locks previously installed on customers’ properties will not need to be
replaced whilst in good order. All new sites, requiring Ausgrid master keyed locks, will now require the installation of the EM Utilities locking system. The EM locking system must be installed when
replacing existing damaged or faulty locks.
The EM locking system uses Abloy Protec locks that are available as padlocks, commercial and residential cylinders and key safes. All Master keys are protected by world-wide patents and cannot be duplicated without the correct authorisation. Superior type master-keying possibilities are also available.
All EM locks can also be keyed to allow access by other authorities such as:
Endeavour Energy, Sydney Water, Hunter and Central Coast Water, Telstra, Gas.
With a full range of locking options, the EM locking system can be used for many purposes such as securing meter boxes, entry gates, building entries, meter rooms and enclosures. The EM locking system is a cost-effective way of providing access without the cost of moving electricity meters. The full range of EM locking options, including master keying and multi-utility access, is available from Integrity Locksmiths & Security. For all residential, commercial and trade inquiries call the EM Call Centre at Integrity Locksmiths on 1300 664 582 or visit their web site
www.integritysecurity.com.au.
Universal master keys of these locking systems are restricted to Ausgrid staff only. It is the responsibility of the owner of the electrical installation to allow access to their switchboard for any works that they initiate.
3
Connections at Low Voltage
3.1
Requirements for Subdivided Land
The premises connection to subdivided land will depend on the land title under which the subdivision is created. The following premises connection arrangements shall apply.
3.1.1 Torrens Title Properties
All Torrens Title lots are to be treated as separate electrical installations and connected via a separate service connection. Premises connection assets (service lines or service mains) shall not encroach on any other lot of land unless they are covered by a registered easement in favour of Ausgrid.
On an exception basis only, for justified practical reasons, Ausgrid may consider alternative
arrangements for sharing unmetered consumer owned mains, pits, pillars and poles, providing they are covered by a legally binding arrangement between all affected land owners specifying (as a minimum) obligations for:
ownership
maintenance
relocation
repair.
Examples of such arrangements are:
Community Title over the land where the jointly owned infrastructure is situated or,
Strata Title over the land where the jointly owned infrastructure is situated, or
88B easement over the land where the jointly owned infrastructure is situated and an 88BA Positive Covenant specifying the obligations stated above.
3.1.2 Strata Title Properties
Strata title subdivisions will be connected via one point of supply and have one metering location. Any deviations from this arrangement must be approved by the local Network Operations office.
3.1.3 Community Title Properties
Community Title subdivisions will have one point of supply to the development, but each separate dwelling can be separately metered. Due to the complexity of these developments, you must consult your local Network Operations group prior to commencing work.
The electrical reticulation to each dwelling must comply with AS/NZS3000
3.2 Connections
Crossing
an Adjoining Property
New or altered service mains (underground or overhead) are to be constructed so they do not cross an adjoining property. If there is no other alternative, a suitable easement in favour of Ausgrid must be obtained for the service mains where they cross the adjoining property.
Dedicated privately owned consumers mains that cross adjoining property must also be covered by a suitable easement in favour of the property being supplied.
3.3
Shared Road Crossing Service Lines
A previous premises connection arrangement was to connect multiple services to installations from:
one service line via a span of overhead mains crossing a road (or at the end of a cul-de-sac), connected between Ausgrid’s distribution pole and a road-crossing (lead-in) pole; or
to underground service mains crossing a roadway (or at the end of a cul-de-sac), terminating at an Ausgrid underground pillar.
Where shared road crossing service lines and mains (including associated underground pillars) require upgrading to increase their current carrying capacity or to increase the number of phases, i.e. 1 phase to 3 phase upgrade (or permanent removal) as a result of a connection application, then customer requiring the work must fund the full cost of the contestable work.
A Level 2 ASP may carry out this work, with the exception of:
work on pole transformer poles
the installation of an Ausgrid underground pillar which requires suitable Level 1 Accreditation. The service mains installation must comply with the Service and Installation Rules of NSW.
Consideration must be given to the total electrical loading on the new mains, to ensure the mains are sized adequately, to avoid overloading.
In certain cases, Ausgrid may NOT permit the reconnection of altered service mains to an existing road-crossing pole but may require the customer to install a private Pole A. For instance, where there is an opportunity for Ausgrid to permanently remove the road-crossing pole, as there are no other services connected to it or the road-crossing pole requires replacement to accommodate the altered service mains. The local Network Operations office should be contacted to confirm the connection arrangements before commencing these projects.
A new service line connection between a private Pole A and an Ausgrid road-crossing pole is not permitted. The service line must be connected between the Pole A and the distribution mains located across the road in accordance with the Service and Installation Rules of NSW.
The customer requesting the upgrading of the shared service lines and their ASP must negotiate with the other affected customers for an agreeable date to carry out the work. Refer to Ausgrid publication ES4- Service Provider Authorisation for further details.
3.4
Separation of Supply
Where a customer requires an existing installation to be rearranged into separately metered portions, (eg a new off peak hot water circuit or separation of the commercial part of the installation from the residential part), the customer should coordinate the electrical installation work with the contestable metering work.
Details of the authorisation required by ASPs to do contestable metering work are contained in Ausgrid’s publication ES4 - Service Provider Authorisation.
No installations or parts of installations are to be left energised and unmetered at any stage unless the installation is a Permanently Unmetered Supply and Ausgrid has inspected and approved the installation.
Where a separation is completed, the new customer must have a Retail contract in place before the new (separated) installation is energised. If the installation is energised without a Retail contract in place, the installation may be disconnected.
3.5
Connections to Pole Mounted Substations
Connections (new or altered) at pole transformers (PT’s) are only permitted as a last resort. A new private Pole A must be installed where this would avoid a connection at a PT. Ausgrid may permit a mid-span connection where LV ABC distribution mains exist as an alternative under certain
circumstances.
The connection application must indicate whether a service line connection at a PT is being proposed. Ausgrid must assess these particular applications and the connection may only proceed where Ausgrid grants approval (monopoly charges apply; refer to Ausgrid’s document Connection Policy – Connection Charges.
Note: The Level 2 ASP must provide a minimum of 10 working days prior notice to Ausgrid’s local Network Operations office to enable the assessment/approval of the proposed service connection.
Where the connection to the PT incorporates consumers mains, a fully completed CCEW covering the installation of the consumers mains must be completed and submitted prior to energising.
3.6
‘Tap-off’ Consumer’s Mains Connections
In older reticulated areas it was common for multiple premises to be connected (tapped off) a single Ausgrid service line via cross property consumer’s mains. These arrangements were particularly common for terrace houses.
The following procedures apply for a customer who requires the removal of cross-property tap-off consumer mains to adjoining premises, for example when they are renovating their premises.
(a) Inform the neighbour of the requirement to remove their cross-property consumer’s mains prior to the commencement of any work and coordinate the works in direct consultation with the neighbour.
(b) Arrange for the installation and funding of temporary tap-off consumer’s mains to the neighbouring premises prior to disconnecting and removing the existing tap-off consumer’s mains. This is required where the neighbour requires additional time to arrange (and fund) the installation of a new permanent service line connection to their premises (i.e. a separate connection to Ausgrid’s distribution mains in the roadway).
(c) Where it is not possible to install temporary tap-off consumers mains, the existing tap-off connection must not be disconnected and removed until the neighbour has installed a new permanent service connection to their premises.
(d) The neighbour must be given a minimum of four business days written notice, not including the day of notification nor the day of interruption, of any interruption (disconnection and
reconnection) of their electricity supply required to install the temporary tap-off consumers mains (the notice must include the duration of the interruption). Provision of this notification is a regulatory requirement. Apart from the time specified on this disconnection and reconnection notice, the neighbouring property/ies must not be left disconnected.
(e) The installing electrical contractor and ASP must submit completed NOSW/CCEW forms for the work carried out.
(f) Private legal advice should be sought if the adjoining property owner is unwilling to cooperate or to install a new separate service line.
Ausgrid will raise a Defect Report on any temporary supply connections which will be subsequently followed-up by an inspection to ensure that a new permanent service or other suitable arrangements have been made.
The neighbour/s with the cross property consumer mains must either arrange and fund a new separate service line to supply their premises within a reasonable time period or make other
permanent arrangements such as a suitable easement covering their private consumer mains across the adjoining property.
3.7
Service Connections to Paper Lead Distribution Cables
Ausgrid publication ES4 – Service Provider Authorisation, specifies that Level 2 Category 2 ASP’s are not permitted to make service connections to existing paper lead distribution cables. If a service is required to be connected to this type of cable the following methods (in order of preference) shall apply:
(a) A new Ausgrid distribution pillar shall be installed. This is achieved by extending the existing paper lead cable with an appropriate length of XLPE. The Level 2 Category 2 ASP may then connect to the new pillar.
(b) A new private pillar located on the customer’s property shall be installed via a tee joint to the paper lead cable. The Level 2 Category 2 ASP may then connect to the new pillar.
(c) A tee connected service shall be installed as an absolute last resort by a Level 1 ASP as a Contestable project
Any cable jointing work conducted on the paper lead distribution cable must be carried out by Ausgrid, or in the case of a Contestable project, an Authorised Level 1 paper lead cable jointer. Note: 1 Upgrades of the Network, including installation of pillars in the above scenarios, to
provide a Level 2 connection for loads up to and including 200amps, will in most cases be funded by Ausgrid.
Note 2: Where Ausgrid performs the work it is important to allow at least three months to adequately schedule the work with all appropriate authorities.
3.8
Bare Aerial Consumers Mains
All new or altered electrically unprotected aerial consumers mains must comply with Section 3 of the Service and Installation Rules and AS/NZS3000.
Customers must not install new or replacement bare aerial electrically unprotected consumers mains or reconnect existing disused bare aerial consumers mains unless specific approval has been given by Ausgrid.
Note: ‘Disused’ refers to installations that have been disconnected by removal of either the service fuses, metering or service mains bonds, or a period greater than six months. For electrical safety reasons, Ausgrid strongly recommends that customers consider the installation of XLPE insulated aerial mains (complying with AS/NZS 3560) to replace existing bare aerial mains.
3.9
Connections at Kiosk and Chamber Substations
3.9.1 New Connections
All new installations supplied via a dedicated low voltage circuit that originates within an Ausgrid kiosk or chamber type substation, must have a circuit breaker as the Service Protective Device at the installation main switchboard. The circuit-breaker/Service Protective Device may also function as the main switch for the installation. The risk of a short-circuit between the substation and the Service Protective Device must be minimised.
Where the substation is on the premises and the conductors are consumer’s mains, a fully completed CCEW covering the installation of the consumer’s mains must be completed and submitted prior to energising.
3.9.2 Alterations and Additions
The Service and Installation Rules of NSW require that a Service Protective Device must be located adjacent to or incorporated in the main switchboard when alterations or additions to an installation are being carried out (with some exceptions).
The following is a list of typical situations, where Ausgrid may require a Service Protective Device to be installed at the main switchboard in conjunction with alterations or additions to existing installations connected directly to the low voltage within kiosk or chamber stations:
(1) Consumers mains are being replaced (e.g. due to increased load) or relocated or extended due to works within the premises;
(2) The main switchboard or CT Metering enclosure is being relocated, reconstructed or significantly altered to accommodate a change in capacity such as an increase or transfer of electrical load;
(3) Switchgear panels are being added to the main switchboard to accommodate additional circuits which increase the maximum demand of the installation or to accommodate load profiling equipment such as Power Factor Correction or voltage optimization/regulation equipment (see note 1);
(4) Additional circuits are added to the main switchboard resulting in an increase in the maximum demand and/or require a change to the upstream installation protection equipment;
(5) Ausgrid is required to increase the capacity of its substation as a result of changes to the customer's installation;
(6) Ausgrid's protection equipment within the substation is no longer considered adequate for the customer's installation.
Note 1: When installing these types of devices consideration must be given to the requirements of all the relevant sections of AS/NZS3000 and the Service and Installation Rules of NSW, in particular the requirement for under and over voltage protection.
Note 2: Each situation must be assessed by Ausgrid on a case by case basis prior to carrying out the additions or alterations.
Ausgrid Network Standards NS 114 (chamber substations) or NS 117 (kiosk substations) must be referred to prior to making a request for consideration of alternative arrangements for the location of the Service Protective Device.
3.10
Out of Area Connections
In special circumstances Ausgrid may consider applications from customers whose premises are located outside Ausgrid’s distribution network area, known as ‘out of area’ customers. The application must be clearly marked at the top “Out of Area Connection” and normally involve installations on or near Ausgrid’s boundary with neighbouring distributors Endeavour and Essential Energy. The application will be assessed in consultation with the relevant neighbouring network operator to determine the relative viability of a normal in area connection to that distributor’s network. Ausgrid will generally not agree to such connections where it requires significant Ausgrid funded augmentation works.
The design and construction of the connection assets must comply with all of Ausgrid’s normal requirements for in area connections and must be carried out by an ASP with relevant Ausgrid authorisation. The new network and premises connection assets will be owned and maintained by Ausgrid.
3.11
Small Scale Grid Connected Generation Systems
As defined by the Service and Installation Rules of NSW, small scale parallel customer generation systems are rated at a maximum of 10kW per phase.
Customers may install a small scale grid connected generation system to their installation for the purpose of generating electricity for use within their installation and/or feeding electricity back into Ausgrid’s Network.
It is the responsibility of the accredited solar installer and the customer’s electrical contractor to ensure the proposed grid connected generating system is compatible with the customer’s existing private electrical installation, the network distribution system and operates in the manner intended. Consideration must be given to the effect on voltage rise and power quality that the grid connected generating system may have on the customer’s installation as well as Ausgrid’s network. The specific requirements of the Service and Installation Rules of NSW in this regard must be complied with as well as Ausgrid publication ES3 Part A – Metering Installations details the metering requirements for these installations.
All new small scale grid connected generation systems in Ausgrid’s Network area are to be Net metered. Ausgrid publication ES3 – Metering Installations details the metering requirements for these installations. Previously approved gross metered generation systems under the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme may remain as connected under the terms of the Scheme which is due to end in December 2016 or otherwise as legislated by the NSW Government.
Small Scale Grid Connected Generation systems must meet the following requirements.
Meet the requirements of AS 4777 series, AS/NZS 3000 (wiring rules), AS/NZS 5033 (installation of photovoltaic arrays) and the Service and Installation Rules of NSW.
Designed and installed by a person who has been accredited by the Clean Energy Council
Meet the requirements of the Clean Energy Council for inverter and PV panel certification.
Is installed in accordance with Clean Energy Council guidelines
All proposed small scale grid connected generation systems where the rating is 5 kW and greater on any one phase must be assessed prior to being approved for connection. When the appropriate connection application is submitted, the applicant must provide Ausgrid with the voltage rise calculations as required by the Service and Installation Rules of NSW.
Scenario A Scenario B
A phase – 3kW A phase – 4kW
B phase – 5kW B phase – 4kW
C phase – 3 kW C phase – 4kW
For example: Scenario A only must be assessed because B phase is 5kW or greater.
Large scale grid connected generators (greater than 10kW per phase) are generally dedicated generation systems and normally powered from such sources as large scale wind or solar farms, hydro, gas or other fuel powered generator systems. These large scale grid connected generation
systems will be connected as a Net metered installation as described below. A separate embedded generator connection application will be required and a formal generator connection agreement may be required depending on the size of the generating system.
3.11.1 Net Metered Grid Connected Generation Systems
Net metered grid connected systems are those where the output of the generator is consumed by the household and any excess energy is delivered back into the Ausgrid Network through a bi-directional meter which must be located at the installations Main Switchboard.
3.11.2 Gross metered grid connected generation systems
Gross metered grid connected systems are those that measure the entire output of the electricity generated by the Generating unit which is fed directly back into the Ausgrid Network.
3.11.3 Adding additional buy back metering to existing embedded generation sites
Customers that have existing embedded generation can add and separately meter additional embedded generation systems. Those customers that are participating in the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme will not have their eligibility affected provided the eligibility requirements of the scheme are not breached for their complying generator.
The available configurations are:
Net and Gross
Gross and Gross
Gross and Net
To determine the correct configuration, the ASP must consult Ausgrid’s document ES3 Part A, Metering Installations.
Before connecting these systems, a Connection Application must be submitted to Ausgrid prior to commencing work.
Multiple separately metered Net systems on different tariffs (ie. one Net NSW SBS systems and a Net Non NSW SBS system) are not permitted as intermixture between the two systems could occur.
3.11.4 NSW Solar Bonus Scheme
The NSW Solar Bonus Scheme will continue until December 2016 for those customers who have connected as part of the scheme and continue to be eligible to receive the bonus.
Customers receiving the Solar Bonus credits must advise Ausgrid of any change in circumstances that may affect the customer’s eligibility for the bonus or the rate at which the bonus is paid.
Circumstances which can affect eligibility for the SBS include increases in generator capacity and a change in the customer at the premises. It is a customer’s responsibility to ensure that they continue to be eligible for the bonus.
Full details regarding eligibility can be found at the DITIRS website at
http://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/sustainable/renewable/solar/solar-scheme/solar-bonus-scheme Customers can change their metering configuration without affecting their eligibility for the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme. Ausgrid will supply the metering at no additional charge but the installation of the metering will be at the customers cost.
All notifications of intended change in circumstances and metering configurations must be provided to Ausgrid by submitting a new connection application with the required details.
It is an offence for a customer not to notify Ausgrid of a change in their circumstances which affect their eligibility for the bonus (Section 15A (8B) of the Electricity Supply Act 1995)
3.12
Request for Current Transformer (CT) metering
The CT Metering Application form (See Appendix A) must be completed and faxed to (02) 9277 3560 or emailed to [email protected] prior to energising any new or altered sites that require CT metering.
This form will be sent to the applicant as part of Ausgrid’s approval process for new or additional load. It is also available from your local Network Operations office.
the retailer
customer’s details
electrical contractor
metering provider
ALL existing metering to be removed
As the information must be confirmed prior to the energisation of the site and may take up to ten days to process, to avoid delay, it is suggested that the details in CT Metering Application form be
submitted as soon as possible.
Prior submission of a completed CT Metering form is necessary to enable energisation of the installation.
3.13
Permanent Unmetered Supplies
As a general rule the maximum load that will be approved by Ausgrid for Special Small Services (SSS)/Permanent Unmetered Supplies (PUMS) or Type 7 unmetered Installations, are loads of no greater than 10A (2.4kW) single phase and supplied from the one Network Point of Common Coupling. Approval for any proposed connections greater than 10A (2.4kW) single phase must be sought from a local Ausgrid Network Operations office.
In addition PUMS loads should be of a constant consumption (i.e. non variable loads). If the consumption of the PUMS is variable it will either be required to be metered or if unmetered, assessed at its maximum variable consumption rate (e.g. a PUMS that has a maximum current of 10A will be assessed at 10A during its period of energy consumption).
The customer must supply Ausgrid with details of each PUMS device which is proposed to be connected to the Ausgrid Network, prior to submitting an application, by submission of appropriate details to the following email address [email protected]
This information will be collated for each PUMS customer in a PUMS “Load Table”. From this load table an “Inventory Table” of each PUMS installation will be prepared for inclusion under a single NMI.
Where a customer’s PUMS installations span across the Ausgrid Network area a NMI will be allocated for the following geographical areas:
South of Broken Bay,
North of Broken Bay,
Far North (upper Hunter Valley, e.g. Muswellbrook, Singleton). Multiple PUMS installations can be allocated under the one NMI.
All unmetered supplies must comply with Section 5 of the Service and Installation Rules of NSW.
3.13.1 Alterations and Additions of PUMS Installations
An new application must be submitted for each new or alteration of an existing PUMS installation. To assist in identification and reconciliation of PUMS installations the customer may provide Ausgrid with a site specific customer identifier when submitting an application. Ausgrid will allocate its own site specific identifier.
For removal or permanent disconnection of a PUMS installation, a NOSW form must be submitted to Ausgrid.
3.13.2 Management of PUMS Installations
Each PUMS customer must provide the required device information to Ausgrid upon request and prior to the installation of any new or altered PUMS device to the Ausgrid Network. This mandatory requirement is necessary to ensure accurate energy consumption values can be calculated and agreed between Ausgrid and the customer. This will also allow for ease of application, auditing, reconciliation and inspection of PUMS installations.
In order to confirm the Daily Average Load (DAL) for an unmetered device that is connected to the Ausgrid Network, the customer must provide the electrical technical specifications for each device. These specifications must include total operating wattage, voltage, current and power factor for each device, which will allow for an accurate assessment of energy consumption as required by
jurisdictional regulations. In addition to the electrical specifications, if the device is controlled to operate at specific times, the customer must provide the type of control (e.g. time switch, ripple, photoelectric (PE) cell) and the hours of use per day.
Appropriate documentation outlining the above requirements must be submitted to Ausgrid upon application for the registration of new PUMS devices.
Contact details for PUMS account queries and the addition of new PUMS devices to the load table, should be forwarded to the following email address: [email protected]
On an annual basis Ausgrid may contact each PUMS customer to confirm that the inventory table and associated load table of devices is up to date. Each PUMS customer must supply contact details to Ausgrid for account and technical enquiries.
The customer must ensure that PUMS installations are able to be fitted with an inspection label which will be attached to the PUMS installation during the mandatory inspection by an Ausgrid officer.
3.13.3 PUMS Lighting
For the purposes of classifying PUMS installations in this document, lighting installations which are covered under the Department of Trade and Investment, Regional Infrastructure and Services, Division of Resources and Energy Water ‘s NSW Public Lighting Code framework are not considered a PUMS installation.
Approval may be given by Ausgrid for the lighting of public areas and private places, other than those covered by DWE NSW Public Lighting Code, to be supplied from the distribution mains as a PUMS installation.
The conditions and charges applicable will be made available on written application. Ausgrid’s document ES7 - Application of Network Use of System Charges provides more detail regarding this requirement.
Smart Poles where access is unrestricted so that further load may be added to the Point of Common Coupling must be metered or will be assessed at their maximum possible load (i.e. If the Smart Pole contains a 10A GPO that is available at all times the installation will be assessed at 10A continuous in addition to the luminaries’ usage) as the load on these Points of Common Coupling are considered variable.
3.14
Power quality assessment requirements
Customers should note that the connection of individual low voltage equipment rated at greater than 75A per phase or that may cause excessive fluctuations of voltage, and for all High Voltage
connections, an assessment and allocation of permissible voltage fluctuation, unbalance and distortion levels is required.
Voltage Level Load Assessment
Low Voltage (230/400V) > 75A/phase PQ Assessment required
Low Voltage (230/400V)
Fluctuating load – e.g. lifts, welders, pumps, cranes, x-ray, MRI or similar type medical equipment
PQ Assessment required
Medium Voltage > 1kV All Connections PQ Assessment required
Any such connections must complete the Power Quality Assessment (‘Specific Equipment – Non Linear/Fluctuating Load details’) section of the application form prior to approval to energisation of the installation.
For all electrical equipment connected within an electrical installation must comply with the relevant Australian Standards including those mandated in the Service and Installation Rules of NSW. Power Quality Assessment for high voltage installations will be assessed based on the Australian Standards as indicated in the relevant clauses of National Electricity Rules.
4
Connections at High Voltage
The NSW Service and Installation Rules and Ausgrid require the controller (i.e. the owner or a lessee) of any premises having a high voltage (HV) installation to produce an Installation Safety Management Plan. In addition Ausgrid will collaborate with the controller of a HV installation to produce an
Operating Protocol. The information below is provided for assistance in preparing an Installation Safety Management Plan and must be read in conjunction with Section 7 of the NSW Service and Installation Rules and Ausgrid Network Standard NS195 - High Voltage Customer Connections (HVC).
A new HV installation connection to the network may be withheld until a complete Installation Safety Management Plan has been prepared as required. It is worthwhile considering the drafting of a preliminary Installation Safety Management Plan during the design stage of a proposed HV
installation. Preliminary installation safety considerations may suggest the need for certain features to be incorporated into the installation. An Installation Safety Management Plan for any new HV
installation must be submitted to Ausgrid to confirm that such a plan has been prepared.
Ausgrid does not undertake to approve any Installation Safety Management Plan that is presented nor does Ausgrid assume responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such customer documentation. While Ausgrid may acknowledge the presentation of a plan, and perhaps comment on it, this is not to be construed as an approval or verification of the completeness of such a plan. Work Health and Safety legislation contain specific requirements regarding the elimination or control of risk of injury by electricity in the workplace. The Electricity (Consumer Safety) Act and Regulation obligates the owner/controller of any electrical installation with responsibility to correctly maintain their installation. Those preparing plans are advised to familiarise themselves with the legislative
requirements. Due care in the preparation and implementation of an Installation Safety Management Plan in line with the following suggestions will assist in the discharge of these legal responsibilities.
4.1 Installation
Safety Management Plan
The contents of an Installation Safety Management Plan should address the full range of risks likely to be associated with the operation, maintenance and possible deterioration of electrical equipment as it ages. The Plan should be based on appropriate risk analysis techniques and cover matters such as non-compliant equipment, upgrade and refurbishment programs, site hazards, etc. An Installation Safety Management Plan for a HV installation should not be limited to the high voltage sections of the installation and it is strongly recommended that a customer extend the Plan to cover all parts of the electrical installation.
The following are some, but not necessarily all, of the topics that should be considered for inclusion in a plan:
A single line diagram (schematic) for the high voltage installation showing all switches and circuit breakers and their identifying labels or numbers.
A set of site specific operating rules covering all aspects of operating the high voltage installation. This should contain specific operating instructions for each piece of high voltage equipment. It should also contain a procedure for arranging isolation of the installation from the Ausgrid high voltage network. Ausgrid’s Network Operations officer, coordinating the arrangements for connection of a new installation, will on request, provide details of the Operating Agreement procedure that applies to arranging isolation of a HV installation from the network.
The qualifications and training of people who will be allowed to operate and/or work on the high voltage installation. This should also address retraining/retesting/re-accreditation procedures.
Procedures for ensuring that areas containing high voltage equipment are accessible only by persons suitably qualified to enter such areas.
Induction procedures for acquainting non-employees (contractors, visitors, etc) with the requirements of the plan when relevant.
Inspection and maintenance programs including a periodic testing regime that will ensure all high voltage equipment remains serviceable and safe and that protection schemes will operate correctly when required. A testing regime may need to include both condition monitoring and functional testing.
An action plan to address deterioration and aging of equipment or non-compliance with applicable codes such as Australian Standards by instituting a suitable repair and replacement program.
Procedures to ensure that no extension or alteration of a HV installation is commissioned without Ausgrid’s agreement (refer Electricity (Consumer Safety) Regulation 2006). Notification for extensions to the low voltage installation must also comply with this regulation.
Procedures to ensure prior negotiation with Ausgrid concerning proposed alterations that may affect the interface between the distribution network and a HV installation, or increase and/or change the nature of an installation’s load. (see Section 8 of this document)
It may be relevant to include procedures for safe handling of insulating oils or other substances that will be encountered by staff/contractors in the course of maintaining or repairing electrical equipment (environmental considerations).
Hazardous areas including confined space risks must be addressed if these exist or may arise on the plant.
Emergency contacts and procedures such as urgent isolation of electricity supply. The correct contact details of authorised personnel must be shown.
Procedures for ensuring that parts of a HV installation (eg underground cables) are not damaged by non-electrical staff or contractors (eg by excavators) - Warning signs may be required in some locations.
Additional References
AS2067- Substations and high voltage installations exceeding 1 kV AC.
ENA NENS 03 -2006 National Guidelines for Safe Access to Electrical and Mechanical Apparatus.
4.2 Operating
protocol
An operating protocol is a brief document that defines the respective responsibilities of the controller of a private high voltage installation and Ausgrid for operating (switching) of parts of the customers installation and the electricity distribution network at the interface of the installation and the Network. It also records the contact details for communication between Ausgrid’s System Control personnel and the customer’s high voltage operating personnel. This document needs to be prepared in consultation with Ausgrid following preparation of the Installation Safety Management Plan.
4.3
Fault levels within a High Voltage Installation
High Voltage customers must provide Ausgrid with details of fault levels assigned throughout their installation as prescribed in the Service and Installation Rules on NSW. The prospective three phase and single phase to ground fault level contribution from the installation, at the Point of Common Coupling to Ausgrid’s network, must be specified separately.
4.4
Cables that enter Ausgrid substations
If any of the customer’s high voltage cables pass through or terminate in an Ausgrid substation, additional testing must be carried out. This testing must be in accordance with Ausgrid’s Network Standard NS161, Specification for Testing of Underground Cables.
5 Notifying
Ausgrid
5.1
Electrical Installation Work (CCEW)
The current Fair Trading NSW Certificate of Compliance Electrical Work (CCEW) form must be used by electrical contractors for notifying Ausgrid of electrical installation work as required by the
Electricity (Consumer Safety) Regulation 2006. The CCEW form replaced the previous notification of Electrical Work (NOEW) form.
The NSW Electricity (Consumer Safety) Regulation obligates electrical contractors to provide a completed CCEW form to customers and to Ausgrid (in certain cases) covering the details of their electrical installation work, the required test results and who carried out the work.
A copy of the CCEW must be given to the customer in every case for all electrical installation work. A CCEW form must be submitted to Ausgrid within 14 days of the following work being energised:
all new installations requiring a new network connection;
any alterations or additions to an electrical installation involving work by an ASP such as work on Ausgrid’s service line or metering;
work on a switchboard or associated electrical equipment (other than work to repair or replace equipment that does not alter the electrical loading, method of electrical protection, system of earthing or physical location of the switchboard or equipment being repaired or replaced). Work on switchboards that require notification to be sent to Ausgrid include the addition of new circuits and subcircuits or submains and any work that increases the rating of subcircuits and submains.
A CCEW is also required to be submitted to Ausgrid after correcting any notified defect in a customer’s installation.
All work including repairs or replacements on customer’s electrical installations must be tested by the installing licensed electrical contractor or their qualified supervisor (Electrical) prior to being
energised.
In situations involving loss of electricity supply to a customer’s premises, licensed electrical contractors are permitted to break the seals on the service fuse holders and replace blown service fuse elements. A risk assessment must be carried out to ensure the work can proceed safely. An ASP with Category 4 Authorisation must be contacted within two working days to reseal the equipment. For further details refer to Ausgrid’s publication ES4 – Service Provider Authorisation. Ausgrid and the electrical contractor are legally obligated to retain completed CCEW forms for five years. CCEW forms, which are individually numbered, are available from the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) and some electrical wholesale outlets.
Where electrical installation work is to be carried out in conjunction with contestable work, the licensed electrical contractor must carry out the required tests and safety checks of the installation work and provide a signed copy of the CCEW form to the ASP prior to commencement of the contestable work. Further details relating to the ASP’s responsibility are contained in our publication ES4 – Service Provider Authorisation.
Electrical contractors please note:
All relevant details on the CCEW form must be completed. Missing or incorrect information on the CCEW form may be result in a defect being recorded under certain circumstances. As each CCEW form is individually numbered, duplicated copies of an original blank form will not be accepted. Assistance with how to complete CCEW forms correctly can be arranged at any of the Ausgrid Network Operations offices if required.
Ausgrid files the records of inspection under Job Number or Installation Number and the customer’s name and address. To enable correspondence or inspection details to be identified, contractors are required to accurately enter the Job Number or Installation Number, the name of the customer and the address of the premises concerned on the CCEW form being submitted. (These details are also required on the NOSW form.)